

Wicked Smart Golf
Michael Leonard
Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf - hosted by Michael Leonard. This golf podcast will help you shoot lower scores and play your best WITHOUT changing your swing.
Michael is a full-time golf writer who has written over 3,500,000 words about the sport since 2017 and been playing golf for more than 20 years. In high school, he dropped 50 shots in four years (124-74), played college golf in Southern California, and now plays competitively in Arizona through the USGA, Arizona Golf Association, and Outlaw Tour. He even went to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer.
His goal is simple - help golfers shoot lower scores and drop their handicap without all the technical swing changes. Because let's face it, no matter how good you get, your swing will never be perfect and a work in progress. The good news is that you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 80 or become a scratch golfer.
In this podcast, he will teach you how to play more consistent golf by mastering your mindset, playing wicked smart golf on the course, learn to practice like a pro, and simplify the short game for lower scores. Enjoy weekly solo episodes and plenty of interviews with golf coaches, elite players, best-selling authors, and other inspiring golf stories.
Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon and Audible for even more helpful strategies to play your best golf ever.
Michael is a full-time golf writer who has written over 3,500,000 words about the sport since 2017 and been playing golf for more than 20 years. In high school, he dropped 50 shots in four years (124-74), played college golf in Southern California, and now plays competitively in Arizona through the USGA, Arizona Golf Association, and Outlaw Tour. He even went to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer.
His goal is simple - help golfers shoot lower scores and drop their handicap without all the technical swing changes. Because let's face it, no matter how good you get, your swing will never be perfect and a work in progress. The good news is that you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 80 or become a scratch golfer.
In this podcast, he will teach you how to play more consistent golf by mastering your mindset, playing wicked smart golf on the course, learn to practice like a pro, and simplify the short game for lower scores. Enjoy weekly solo episodes and plenty of interviews with golf coaches, elite players, best-selling authors, and other inspiring golf stories.
Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon and Audible for even more helpful strategies to play your best golf ever.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 1, 2024 • 5min
231: The Easiest Way to Start Swinging Faster This Weekend
Learn the easiest way to change your game this weekend so you can hit it longer and have more fun in 2024. Also, make sure to fill out this short five question survey to get entered into the Wicked Smart Golf 2-year giveaway for FREE mental golf coaching. I know it sounds too good to be true but I know first hand that the Tour Tempo app can transform your game FAST. Even if you can't make it to the range or simulator, download the app to speed up your tempo and hit it longer than ever. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 29, 2024 • 48min
230: John Novosel Jr. - How a "Tour Tempo" Can Transform Your Game
Before the interview, make sure to fill out this short five question survey to get entered into the 2-year Wicked Smart Golf giveaway. John Novosel Jr. is today's guest and one of my favorite interviews as we cover all things tempo. He's the co-creator of Tour Tempo, author of Tour Tempo Force, and has given thousands of lessons to players of all skill levels - from beginners all the way to major champions. Not to mention, he's a great player himself and has competed in long drive championships, including his longest drive of 402 yards (with 130mph clubhead speed). If you haven't read my book, Wicked Smart Golf yet, I talk abut tempo for a whole chapter and reference the importance of developing a "Tour Tempo." Why? Because it can transform your swing with one bucket of balls. The Tour Tempo app is one of the best golf apps and without question the best $25 investment you can make in your swing. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: What is the "perfect tempo." Why most golfer swing the club too slow. The secret timing of 97 of the last 100 major winners. How a faster tempo can create a smoother transition. How short game tempo differs from long game tempo. John's impressive long drive history where he bombed on more than 400 yards. More about the Tour Tempo app and how you can use it for all parts of your game. And a lot more. If you haven't yet, download the Tour Tempo app to instantly improve your timing and hit it longer than you thought possible (without any mechanical swing changes). WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 27, 2024 • 18min
229: I Played TPC Scottsdale Stadium From The Tips + Giveaway
Last week, I got to play TPC Scottsdale Stadium course... with the stadium in full effect. In today's episode, learn five lessons from playing from the PGA Tour tees that can help you play better in competition or playing a bucket list course. Also, this week marks two years since the first episode of Wicked Smart Golf podcast... which means I'm doing a giveaway. Simply fill out this short five question survey and you'll be entered to win: One mental golf coaching call ($175 value) to master your mental game. Two memberships to Wicked Smart Golf Academy ($97) to help lower your handicap. Three memberships to Pre-Shot Like a Pro ($27 value) to help you play more consistently. Make sure to complete the survey by March 6th for a chance to win. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Pre-Shot Routine Checklist (100% FREE) Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 23, 2024 • 5min
228: Don't Forget - Bad Shots Are Part of Golf
No matter how good you get bad shots happen. Learn to manage your expectations and bounce back quickly so you can play better and avoid blowup holes. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 22, 2024 • 57min
227: Michael Leonard - 7 Things I Did NOT Do to Become a Scratch Golfer
Today's guest episode is... me (aka Michael Leonard) - the host of Wicked Smart Golf. I'm sharing an episode where I was a guest on T-Time with Tori. She is a fellow AZ golfer + podcaster and we covered what I did NOT do to become a scratch golfer. In this episode you will learn Why the right mindset is so important. Common misconceptions of scratch golf. Why scratch golf is like getting 6-pack abs. Tangible strategies to become a top 5% golfer. The difference between a scratch golfer and a "true scratch" golfer. And a lot more. Also, make sure to listen to my full interview with Tori Totlis form last year (episode #141). And make sure to check out her podcast, T-Time with Tori. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 20, 2024 • 16min
REPLAY: How to Create a Pre-Shot Routine Like a Pro
A pre-shot routine is one of the few constants in golf that all good players (pros & ams) have in common and something that you can control. It's also something you can and should develop in the offseason. Here's why... A pre-shot routine will also help you: Stay calm and focused Improve your pace of play Block out negative thoughts Find your target and commit to a shot Take your range game to the golf course But most importantly, it will help you get into the zone. When your pre-shot routine becomes automatic, you can easily get in the zone and let your subconscious take over. This is where greatness comes and it's almost an out-of-body experience. To get these benefits on the golf course, you need to first create your routine on the range. In this episode we'll cover: Why you need a waggle How bad routines lead to meltdowns The importance of breath in your golf swing Why you need to analyze the lie before picking a club The correct amount of time to spend over the golf ball Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round by grabbing the free Pre-Shot Routine Checklist. Or, if you want access to 30+ videos for an in-depth training on routine, join Pre-Shot Like a Pro WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 16, 2024 • 3min
226: The Easiest Short Game Tip EVER
Learn the easiest golf tip ever to help you save shots around the green (and make sure you never lose a wedge). WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 15, 2024 • 48min
225: Abe Candelaria - How to Prepare For Tournaments Like a Pro
Abe Candelaria is back talking all things offseason, tournament golf, and how to thrive under pressure. Make sure to listen to episode #59 with Abe to learn more about his inspiring golf story. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: A +3 player's offseason routine. Why you should track statistics each year. How enjoying the journey makes it all worth it. The missing piece to playing well in tournaments. How tournaments can help you speed up success. Why wedges and short game are vital to scoring your best. Why you should start playing in tournaments before you're "ready." And a lot more. If you're ready to get into tournaments, make sure to check out the Tournament Golf Formula. WICKED SMART GOLF TOURNAMENT RESOURCES 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Feb 13, 2024 • 18min
224: Zen Golf Interview Recap - 5 Mental Hacks for Lower Scores
Last week's interview with Dr. Joseph Parent of Zen Golf was too good not to recap. Today, I'll share my perspective after interviewing one of the top mental golf coaches so you can improve your mindset (on and off the course). When you listen to this interview you will learn: The right ways to visualize golf shots. How a post shot routine can eliminate blow up holes. Why you need an "empty cup" when learning new skills. How "anyway" shots are killing your chances of playing wicked smart. And a lot more! WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Feb 9, 2024 • 4min
223: STOP Being Ashamed of First Tee Jitters
The first tee jitters are part of golf - quit being ashamed of them. As Raymond Floyd said, "If you get first-tee jitters, the first thing you should know is that they're nothing to be ashamed of. I still get them before every tournament round." Tiger said something similar and mentioned if you don't get them at all, you shouldn't be out there! The most important thing to remember is that you need to stick to a good routine so you don't worry about anyone watching… instead thinking only of target. Embrace the "jitters" by reframing them as nerves to play your best golf. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.


